FCBARCELONA.CAT

24.12.2007 11:48

Puyol to rest for a week

www.fcbarcelona.cat

Tests have revealed that Carles Puyol will have to rest for a week and undergo physiotherapy after receiving a strong blow to his knee during the game against Real Madrid on Sunday evening.

The Barcelona captain was substituted after picking up the injury in el Clásico and reported to the club's medical staff on Monday morning for a more thorough examination.

Midway through the second half Puyol and Raúl collided and the Blaugrana defender came off worst as he was left clutching his leg and had to replaced by Gianluca Zambrotta with 14 minutes remaining.

The tests have now confirmed that he received a strong blow to his right knee and the club's medical team have recommended that he has a week of complete rest and also undergoes a programme of physiotherapy in order to recover.

Barça's next official game is on January 2 in the Copa del Rey against Alcoyano and Puyol is predicted to be fit in time to be considered for selection for the match.